A pedal through Beijing's small alleys and side streets brings bright glimpses of life in this massive city. Biking used to be commonplace in China before it became the world's largest car market, with some of the worst traffic. Now, a new generation is discovering China's cycling tradition.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

This Russian dissident believes the country must be changed from within. He and others were traded in the largest prisoner swap in the post-Cold War era. Now, they're planning a protest in Berlin and advocating for pro-Ukrainian policy in the U.S. to defeat Russia.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

There are rules and norms in place in conflicts meant to shield civilians from the worst harms of war. But human rights groups say lately they're being ignored or broken. Our correspondent has been covering two wars in which many of the laws of war are being flouted.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

We go to the borders between Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Afghanistan to see the dried up shores of what was once one of the largest lakes in the world, the Aral Sea. Mismanagement of the rivers that fed the sea because of demand for irrigation in the dry region, caused the Aral Sea to slowly disappear. And now an irrigation project being undertaken by the Taliban government in Afghanistan threatens to disrupt the ecological and economic balance of one of the main sources of water in the region.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The region drained by the Amazon River, including the Amazon rainforest, is in the second year of a punishing drought. That has led to the lowest water levels in more than 100 years for the Amazon and its major tributaries. Millions of people and an array of wildlife depend on those quickly disappearing waters. We travel to the region to see the effects.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A mystery scrapbook at a Paris flea market and the search for a wartime photographer's identity reveal bravery and sacrifice.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Japan is the only country where married couples are required to use one surname or family name. Most often it's women who give up their surname and women's rights advocates have fought for decades for the right to use different surnames in marriage. And now proponents are using a new argument to make their point.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The U.S. Justice Department says it has foiled at least four assassination attempts tied to foreign powers in recent years. They're part of a trend of governments attempting to silence their critics overseas. We hear from the target of one of those assassination plots, which was allegedly orchestrated by an Indian intelligence official.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

An upcoming Taiwanese television show, 'Zero Day,' is generating buzz for depicting what a Chinese invasion of the democratic island would be like for everyday citizens.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Even as the war in Gaza is still on-going, there are calls from inside Israel's right-wing government for a permanent occupation of the Palestinian territory and to allow Jewish settlements there. While the Prime Minister says this is not the government's policy, some say the military's latest moves make it possible. Our correspondent tells us more from the Israel-Gaza border. For more coverage of all sides of this conflict, go to npr.org/mideastupdatesLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

More than a fifth of Lebanon's population is now displaced, mostly fleeing from the country's south as Israel carries out airstrikes against the Iran-backed group Hezbollah there. With so many people out of their homes, they're taking refuge anywhere they can, including in one of Beirut's most popular nightclubs. Our reporter in Lebanon introduces us to some of the displaced. For more coverage of all sides of this conflict, go to npr.org/mideastupdates.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The former Soviet republic of Moldova narrowly passed a referendum to pursue membership in the European Union. That puts it at odds with Russia, which is accused of meddling in the election. Our correspondent in Moscow tells us what the vote could mean. And we go to the bar in Paris that for over a century has held a U.S. presidential straw poll that is usually accurate.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

NPR's Eyder Peralta takes us to Dahieh, a stronghold of Hezbollah, and an important symbol in the war. This vibrant district of Beirut is hollowed out by weeks of Israeli attacks.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Yahya Sinwar was the mastermind of the October 7th attack on Israel that lead to the war in Gaza. Israel says its forces killed him in an operation in Gaza. We'll hear reaction to his death, more about who he was, and how his killing might affect the future of the war. For more coverage of all sides of this conflict, go to npr.org/mideastupdates Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Biden administration has urged Israel to conduct credible, transparent investigations into the Americans' deaths, so far Israel has not prosecuted anyone. We hear from families of those killed, and a member of congress, who think the U.S. Justice Department should be doing more.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Norway is the largest exporter of salmon in the world. And while some of those fish are wild-caught, many are raised in "fish farms"- large cylindrical pens made of nylon in the open water. Sometimes these farmed fish escape, mixing with the local population and causing ecological issues. We see farmed fish in a Norwegian fjord and hear about potential solutions to the problem.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Britain has closed it's last coal-fired power plant, making the country that pioneered coal power, the first to give it up in favor of cleaner options. We hear about the transition. And a small town in Wales has become the unlikely site of a world-renowned Elvis festival.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Raneem Hijazi was eight months pregnant when an Israeli airstrike on her apartment in Gaza buried her in rubble, killing eight family members including her young son. Hijazi survived and gave birth that day to a healthy baby girl. But then she was separated from her newborn for months. We hear the story of their difficult time apart.Listen to a special episode featuring more stories of lives changed since last October 7th, in our podcast feed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Sudan's war has displaced more than 12 million people and half the country faces starvations. The country's medical services have collapsed leaving a patchwork of charities, local groups and the Sudanese diaspora to try to provide what health care they can. NPR's Africa correspondent takes us to one of the few remaining hospitals, near the Sudanese capital.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Just over a week ago, the Israeli military sent ground troops into Lebanon to push the militant group Hezbollah back from the border. Our correspondent got as close a look at this invasion as possible, from a town ten miles from the border. He tells us what he saw.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A year ago, a Hamas-led attack on Israel caused a horrific loss of life, started a war and now the aftermath threatens to further destabilize the region. In that attack, five of Abby Onn's family members were taken hostage. Two were killed, two were released, one remains in captivity. We hear how she and her family are marking the occasion and keeping hope that their final family member will be returned safe. Listen to a special episode featuring stories of lives changed since last October 7th, in our podcast feed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The October 7th Hamas-led attacks on Israel and the subsequent Israeli invasion of Gaza has changed the course of geopolitics and will have far reaching consequences for the world. The events have also upended the lives of countless individuals. Our team of reporters in the region bring us stories of lives changed in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank. Sign up for State of the World+ to listen sponsor-free and support the work of NPR journalists around the world. Visit plus.npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Fighting between the Sudanese army and a paramilitary group have displaced some 12 million people in one of Africa's biggest countries. Our correspondent travels to Sudan and gives us a glimpse of the devastation the war has caused.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

As China celebrates 75 years of Communist Party rule, there is a fight over who gets to tell the history of those years. The party would prefer to make sure the story is a positive one and is exerting power to control that narrative. One high profile example of that is playing out far away, in California.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Iran launched long-range missiles against Israel, just hours after Israeli forces launched a ground offensive into southern Lebanon against Iran's main proxy, Hezbollah. The dramatic escalation is raising fears of an all-out war in the Middle East. We hear from two NPR correspondents in the region. For more coverage of all sides of this conflict, go to npr.org/mideastupdatesLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israel began a series of attacks against the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah with pagers and walkie talkies that exploded. They then launched airstrikes targeting the group's leadership. One strike killed Hezbollah's leader of over thirty years, Hassan Nasrallah. The attacks are an effort to prevent Hezbollah from continuing to fire rockets at northern Israel, which it has been doing since the war in Gaza began. Israel's airstrikes are continuing to widen and their military is massing at the border, pointing to a possible ground invasion. We'll hear from our correspondent in Beirut about the feeling on the ground there. We also hear about whether and how Iran might respond. Iran had been arming Hezbollah to counter Israel, and the weakening of the group is a blow to an important proxy of Iran's. For more coverage of all sides of this conflict, go to npr.org/mideastupdates Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Hackney area of East London is burgeoning with art galleries and cafes. But the neighborhood, like many places that are appealing to young professionals, is rapidly losing families with children. And some experts say it's a bad sign for the future. We go to Hackney to understand the problem.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza approaches the one year mark. Violence between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon continues to escalate. And there are fears that Iran will get deeply involved with these conflicts. In a volatile moment in the region, Jordan balances a unique set of relationships with all these countries. We hear from Ayman Safadi, who is Jordan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, about what he thinks it will take to end the conflicts. For more coverage of differing views on these conflicts, go to npr.org/mideastupdatesLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

As the war in Ukraine drags on, the U.S. military is keeping a close eye on how drones are changing the conflict. They are used by both Russia and Ukraine to watch troop movements, identify targets and drop bombs. We go to the woods of Louisiana to see what lessons the U.S. Army is incorporating into its training and understand what it might mean for future wars.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In Russia, polls consistently show support for the war in Ukraine somewhere around 70%. But a recent independent study of Russians' opinions indicates the picture is more complex. We hear more from our correspondent in Moscow. And in Ukraine, couples who are separated by the war can now propose and get married online over an app. The service is so popular there is a months-long wait for virtual ceremonies.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon kill over 350 and injure more than 1,000. The attacks were mostly in southern Lebanon where Hezbollah militants have been trading fire across the border with Israel since the war in Gaza began. Our correspondent is there in the south of Lebanon where civilians are fleeing the attacks any way they can.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A building in a residential neighborhood in Beirut was struck by Israel, killing a senior commander with the militant group Hezbollah and ten other fighters, according to the Israeli military. It was the deadliest attack in Beirut in nearly two decades and it comes in the same week Hezbollah militants were targeted by Israel with thousands of exploding pagers and radios. We go to the scene of the strike in Beirut.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In China the government is raising the official retirement age to combat a rapidly shrinking workforce. We hear reaction from Chinese workers. And life in Mexico City presents many challenges for people there. But getting a driving license isn't one of them.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Life is uncertain for children in war zones. There, school can be a source of stability or just another thing that war obliterates. We hear reports on what school is like in three of the world's most active war zones: Sudan, Gaza and Ukraine. Sign up for State of the World+ to listen sponsor-free and support the work of NPR journalists. Visit plus.npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Authorities in Lebanon are blaming Israel for an apparent attack in which pagers, used by Hezbollah in Lebanon, exploded simultaneously. At least nine people were killed, more than 2,700 were injured. Tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, the Lebanese paramilitary group backed by Iran, had already been high and there were fears their frequent attacks on each other could escalate into all-out war. We hear about what this all could mean from our correspondent in the region.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A rape case in France involving a woman whose ex-husband is on trial for drugging her and recruiting other men to sexually assault her. Now thousands have turned out to support her and many are asking hard questions about the culture that allowed this to happen for years.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Security Council is the United Nations' most powerful body, with the ability to impose sanctions and authorize the use of force. There are five permanent members of the council: Russia, France, China, the U.S and Britain. And any one of those permanent members can veto council resolutions. The U.S. is proposing expanding the number of permanent members, including two permanent seats for African countries. We talk to the U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. about the proposal. And Seoul, South Korea is such a massive city, residents looking to experience nature can face a long journey to reach the countryside. As a result, the city's parks are catering to urban campers who want to sleep outdoors closer to home. We meet some of them.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Cocoa beans, which are used to make chocolate, are mostly grown in a few places making them susceptible to the effects of extreme weather events, driven by climate change. We hear about a team in Germany that is developing a chocolate made without cocoa.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

It's been two years since the death of a woman in the custody of Iran's morality police led to protests across the country. The brutal government crackdown that followed continues today- with artists, journalists and activists targeted. NPR's Jackie Northam brings us the voices of some of those affected.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Palestinians living in the occupied West Bank say springs are taken over by Israeli settlers and taps in towns barely run. And in Britain, Princess Catherine Announces She's Completed Chemotherapy.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The ruling Taliban in Afghanistan issued a sweeping morality law in August. Among other things, it bans women's voices outside the home: no laughing, speaking loudly or singing. Afghan women outside the country are protesting the restriction by posting videos of themselves singing. We hear from some of them.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

There has been nearly a week of protests in Israel following the death of six hostages held by Hamas. They're calling on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to agree to a ceasefire deal with Hamas, bringing the remining hostages held in Gaza home. But so far, no deal has been reached. We talk about how Israelis view their prime minister with Anshel Pfeffer, correspondent for The Economist and author of a biography of Netanyahu.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Last month in Bangladesh, street protests grew into a movement that eventually ended the rule of the autocratic prime minister. Now the country is picking up the pieces and charting a new way forward. We board a double-decker bus in Bangladesh's capital, Dhaka, to talk to Bangladeshis about the future.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

There is a contentious fight in Mexico right now over constitutional reforms that would remake the judiciary. Opponents say the changes would weaken the judiciary's independence, but Mexicans elected a government with a super-majority, making these changes possible. Our correspondent in Mexico asks: in a democracy, what if the majority is wrong?Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israel mourns six hostages, who were captured during the October 7th attacks by Hamas, and found by the Israeli military in Gaza, recently killed. We go to the funeral of one of the hostages, in Jerusalem. And in Gaza, nearly all residents have been displaced multiple times by evacuation orders from the Israeli military, into so-called humanitarian safe zones. We get a glimpse of what life is like in these overcrowded areas. For more coverage of all sides of this conflict, go to npr.org/mideastupdates Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In the summer of 1944, as American and Allied soldiers celebrated the liberation of France from the Nazis, one French family experienced a trauma that would be felt for generations. A murder and sexual assault so traumatic they are only now coming to terms with it, 80 years later. And this wasn't an isolated incident. We hear their story.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

As the war drags on, families of hostages who have been held in Gaza for nearly eleven months are becoming increasingly frustrated and angry. Some of them release some of their pain by yelling their loved ones names into Gaza, in hopes of being heard. And the U.S. pressures Israel to change the way it evacuates civilians from parts of Gaza, amid fears of their safety. For more coverage of all sides of this conflict, go to npr.org/mideastupdatesLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Just like in the U.S., Amazon is a big e-commerce presence in India. And also like the U.S., Amazon's fulfillment centers in India have been the subject of complaints of unsafe conditions for workers. To understand what those conditions are like, we hear from some Amazon warehouse workers. Disclosure: Amazon is among NPR's financial supports and pays to distribute some NPR content. NPR covers the company independently as we cover everything else.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

On Wednesday Israel launched raids into the Occupied West Bank, they say to root out Hamas militants and prevent another attack like the one that occurred on October 7th. We hear the latest on those raids. And Israelis who believe the West Bank should be Israeli territory have significantly increased settlement activity since the war in Gaza started. Our correspondent visits some of the outposts.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The island nation of Palau is at the center of tensions between the U.S., China, and Taiwan. We go there to see what the competition between superpowers looks like on the ground.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

At one time, in the 1970's, Watford Football Club in England was at the bottom of the rankings. Then rock superstar Elton John purchased the team and turned their fortunes around. Our London correspondent tells us the tale of the failing soccer club and the rock star. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Work continues towards finding a path to a ceasefire in Gaza. U.S. mediators continue to communicate optimism, while the two sides, Israel and Hamas, seem to downplay the idea that progress is being made on their remaining differences. We hear about one major sticking point. Control of a strip of land in southern Gaza called the Philadelphi Corridor. And the bodies of six Israeli hostages taken captive on October 7th were recovered this week. At funerals we hear friends and family express anger at the Israeli government for not doing enough to bring their loved ones home alive. For more coverage of all sides of this conflict, go to npr.org/mideastupdatesLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In an unprecedented step, the U.S. has imposed sanctions in recent months on about a dozen Israelis who it says have taken violent action against Palestinians and posed obstacles to peace. We hear from one Israeli who the U.S. has taken action against.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Some Ukrainians are fleeing an unpopular conscription drive for troops. Ukrainian guards are on their trail. NPR's Joanna Kakissis takes us to one escape route along a river in Western Ukraine.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The world needs lithium to transition to a lower carbon future. The mineral is used in batteries, such as those found in electric vehicles. But extracting lithium can create huge environmental damage. We go to Serbia, where a proposed lithium mine is fueling social unrest.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Some 12 million people are displaced in Sudan as the military government battles a powerful paramilitary group. There is acute hunger and risk of famine for many. Peace talks hoping to resolve the crisis are being held in Geneva this week. We hear about the chances that those talks will succeed and details about conditions on the ground in Sudan.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Ukraine's attack into Russian territory surprised many. Including, it would seem, the Russians themselves. But what are the strategic goals Ukraine is hoping to achieve with this move? We hear from a retired U.S. lieutenant general.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Earlier this month a youth-led movement helped topple the government of an autocratic prime minister in Bangladesh. Now students sweep broken glass, direct traffic, and join the government. But can they rebuild a country? We go to the streets of Dhaka.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Following a disputed election in Venezuela, autocratic president Nicolàs Maduro is cracking down on the opposition. Thousands have been arrested and lawmakers are threatening social media sites and planning to close down civic groups. We hear from opponents of Maduro.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In a rare interview with a Hamas leader our correspondent asks about the attacks of October 7th and the aftermath. He says the group has no regrets about launching the operation, but that mistakes were made.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Last week, in surprise move, Ukraine sent it's military into Russian territory. And so far the Russians have been struggling to mount a defense and kick them out. We hear what is known about the operation from our correspondent in Kyiv.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Ukraine has competing needs from its military aged population. It needs many of them to join the military to fight the Russian invasion. But it also needs them in the workforce, to keep the economy going so it can afford to pay for the war effort. As our reporter in Kyiv tells us, the most recent conscription law has exacerbated the problem.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

For over a week race riots have broken out in the United Kingdom, mostly in smaller, poorer, less diverse cities. The violence has been stoked by misinformation and disinformation online. Our reporter travels to one of the places that saw mob violence to understand why it's happening.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A popular book and TV series in Europe imagines the straight-laced former German chancellor Angela Merkel solving crimes in her retirement. We unpack the premise's popularity. And an American has been jailed in Nigeria over a dispute the country has with the crypto-currency exchange Binance. Some say the man is effectively being held hostage.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

This week the prime minister of Bangladesh fled the country by helicopter, forced out by a protest movement that started peacefully but became violent. We hear from our correspondent about the events that lead to this dramatic change in government. And we hear reaction from a journalist who had been jailed 6 years ago for criticizing that government.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Iran has vowed to strike Israel following the assassination of a Hamas leader on Iran's soil. We hear from Israelis watching and waiting as they know an attack is coming but the don't know when. And in the West Bank, the war between Israel and Hamas has sparked an increase in Palestinian men wanting to die fighting Israeli occupation. For more coverage of all sides of this conflict, go to npr.org/mideastupdatesLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In Nigeria, even two meals a day is becoming unaffordable to many. Demonstrators are protesting food inflation of more than 40 percent, and fuel costs that have tripled. And in China, live-streamers digitally clone themselves, raising questions about the future of labor in the age of A.I.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Hezbollah and Hamas bury their slain leaders. And Venezuelan security forces arrest protesters of last weekend's presidential election.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Venezuelans continue to protest Sunday's disputed election in which President Nicolas Maduro claimed victory. The opposition says it has evidence that their candidate won. And in China, an informal social media poll favors one candidate for the US presidency.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

People find new ways to grow food after severe drought in some regions of Ethiopia.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Druze community of the Golan Heights mourns after a weekend rocket strike on a soccer field kills 12 children. The attack raises questions about the Druze identity— an Arab minority group that can claim Israeli citizenship.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In Venezuela's presidential elections, incumbent Nicholas Maduro fights a movement against him lead by Maria Corina Machado, who's been barred from the race. In Russia, Russian American journalist, Alsu Kurmasheva, is sentenced to prison in a case similar to that of jailed Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Olympic Opening Ceremonies are typically held in stadiums. For the 2024 Games, Paris is taking the event to the heart of the city, in and along the River Seine. NPR's Eleanor Beardsley has this preview.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Like many other countries, South Koreans are turning away from organized religions. But DJ Yoon Seong-ho is using his beats to attract new followers to his Buddhist faith.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A play about witches is selling out in Ukraine's capital Kyiv. And even though the plot takes place centuries ago, the play's takeaways and parallels to today resonate with Ukrainians. We hear from actors and audience members.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Wall Street Journal correspondent Evan Gershkovich was sentenced to 16 years in a Russian prison on charges of espionage. His employer and the U.S. government have said he is innocent and the trial is a sham. We hear the latest from Moscow and reaction from the U.S.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Artificial Intelligence makes it possible to resurrect deceased loved-ones in the form of a very convincing video and audio imitation. Some companies in China are beginning to provide this as a service. We hear about the practice and the ethical questions it raisesLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In Kenya, protests that began in response to tax increases have grown into a movement demanding the president's resignation. Scores of protestors have gone missing since the anti-government protests began a month ago. Human rights groups fear that the security forces are behind these disappearances. We hear from young protestors.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Ever since the Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7th, Israel had detained thousands of Palestinians from Gaza. We hear the story of one radiologist who says he endured beatings and mistreatment during seven months in Israeli detention. For more coverage of all sides of this conflict, go to npr.org/mideastupdates Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Every five years China's Communist Party holds a meeting in secret called the "third plenum". And while it may sound arcane, there are a lot of important policy decisions that have come out of this meeting. Our correspondent in Beijing tells us what is at stake for the meeting this week.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The United States Justice Department says it has foiled at least four assassination plots sponsored by foreign governments on U.S. soil. One of the targets of those assassination attempts is Masih Alinejad, an Iranian-American journalist and activist who Iran allegedly tried to have killed in New York. We hear how knowing she is at such risk has turned Alinejad's life upside down.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In the latest escalation of tensions between the two, China seized a fishing vessel from Taiwan while it was in Taiwanese territorial waters. This is seen as Beijing sending a message that it plans to assert more control over Taiwan, which China claims as it's own. Our correspondent travels to a small Taiwanese island near where the boat was seized and finds residents who know they would be on the front line of any future military action that could erupt between China and Taiwan.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Israeli hostages taken during the October 7th attacks and held in Gaza are a major sticking point in cease-fire negotiations between Israel and Hamas. A spokesperson for Hamas tells NPR not all those hostages are being held by his organization, some are being held by families in Gaza. And in Israel, what Gaza will look like after major combat operations end is the subject of fierce debate, with military and political leaders so far failing to agree. For more coverage of all sides of this conflict, go to npr.org/mideastupdatesLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

We hear from an American who moved to Israel before the October 7th attacks and has served in the Israeli army in Gaza. Over a series of conversations with NPR, he wrestles with the war, his role there, and how much more he can give. For more coverage of all sides of this conflict, go to npr.org/mideastupdatesLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In May, Russia was able to make significant advances in northeastern Ukraine as military aid from the U.S. and elsewhere was stalled. And while the aid eventually did reach the front lines, tempering Russian gains, the damage is still deeply felt in one small Ukrainian community. Our correspondent takes is to the town near the front line.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The U.K. has a new government with a new prime minister as Sir Keir Starmer's Labour party sweeps to power in an historic election. The vote was a stunning rebuke of the Conservative Party's 14 years in power.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Brazil has the biggest— and many say the best— team of surfers heading to the Olympics in Paris. Brazilian surfers are leading competitions and winning fans over in this soccer dominated country.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

NPR's Leila Fadel asks Haiti's interim prime minister, Garry Conille, about his mandate to lift Haiti out of violence and pave the way for electionsLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A centrist human rights lawyer with working class roots, Keir Starmer is poised to be the first Labour leader to win a U.K. election in nearly 20 years.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Five years after mass protests rocked Hong Kong, and were crushed by the government, people who took part are downsizing their dreams and ambitions — but keeping a small flame of hope alive.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In the wake of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the U.S. and many western governments sought to isolate Russia politically and economically through sanctions. But Russia insists it still has plenty of friends in the world. Our Moscow correspondent went to meet some of them at an economic forum in Saint Petersburg.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The first 400 Kenyan police arrived in Haiti this week, part of a multinational force that will attempt to bring stability back the country. Gangs control most of Haiti's capital, Port-au-Prince. But the Kenyan police arrived in Haiti as the same police force was firing on protesters in Kenya's capital, Nairobi. We hear about what is happening both in Haiti and in Kenya.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Brazil is experiencing one of the wettest rainy seasons on record. On Brazil's southern coast, five months of rain fell in 15 days. Flooding lead to over a hundred deaths and over 400,000 people displaced. With more extreme weather expected due to climate change, officials in Brazil are considering relocating whole towns, adding to a growing global phenomenon of people becoming "climate refugees". Carrie Kahn introduces us to some of them in southern Brazil. Sign up for State of the World+ to listen sponsor-free and support the work of NPR journalists. Visit plus.npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The war between two armed groups in Sudan has been going on for over a year and has engulfed much of the country. About 12 million people are internally displaced, there is a potential for famine in many parts of the country and there are again fears of genocide in Darfur. The International Rescue Committee has put Sudan at the top of their emergency watchlist and their report says that the international community has failed in Sudan. We talk to the IRC country director about the dire situation.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

France will hold national elections soon and it appears the far right could take political power for the first time since World War II. This would represent a huge political shift in France. We hear from our correspondent in Paris. And the price of gold shot up this spring, due in large part to increased demand for the precious metal in China. We find out what is driving that demand. Sign up for State of the World+ to listen sponsor-free and support the work of NPR journalists. Visit plus.npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

After a tumultuous few years in British politics, with Brexit and multiple prime ministers, one lasting less than two months, U.K. voters will go to the polls on July 4th. Many in Britain say their country feels broken. Our correspondent in London takes a look at what the U.K.'s next prime minister will inherit.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A growing number of children in the U.S. are being targeted in sextortion schemes— a scam in which a cybercriminal obtains and then threatens to release nude or sexually compromising photos, blackmailing victims for a ransom. And sadly dozens of young victims have died by suicide in the last few years. Cybercriminals are often based abroad and it is a particular problem in Nigeria. Our correspondent in Lagos, Nigeria tells us about the issue, about the tragic case of one 17 year-old victim who took his own life, and about what the FBI is doing to combat the problem. If you or someone you know may be considering suicide or is in crisis, please get support. In the U.S. you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Today we bring you an episode from NPR's science podcast Short Wave about how Israel is using facial recognition software to track Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank. And what the proliferation of this technology means for privacy around the world.You can find more Short Wave episodes here.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Russian President Vladimir Putin makes a two-day state visit to North Korea meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. We explore how the two countries might cooperate, with NPR's correspondents in Moscow and Seoul.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israel has announced a daily pause in fighting in an effort to allow more food and other humanitarian aid into Gaza. But some are criticizing the move. We go to the border crossing. And in London, our correspondent descends beneath the streets in search of the inspiration behind the world's most famous secret agent.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy